Expanding 'Te Huringa ō te Ao' Service into Northland to Support Pacific Men and Whānau

The Fono is extending its co-design process of 'Te Huringa ō te Ao' service into Northland, providing support for Pacific men and whānau seeking help with changing violent behaviours, including sexual abuse. 

'Te Huringa ō te Ao' addresses complex issues surrounding violence through a culturally grounded, whānau-focused approach. This expansion will work alongside The Fono's existing 'Whānau Resilience' service in Northland, which focuses on building resilience and strengthening family bonds. Together, these services will create a more complete support system that tackles the root causes of violence and supports healing and change. 

For the first two years, The Fono will co-design the service with Pacific men and their whānau, ensuring the programme meets the specific needs of the community. This approach aims to create a culturally safe space for honest conversations about violence, responsibility, and healing. 

"This growth into Northland is an important step forward," says CEO Fiugalu Tevita Funaki MNZM. "We're working to bring real change to whole communities. Violence often stems from deep-seated social and cultural factors, which is why we're partnering directly with Pacific men and their whānau to build solutions that work." 

Fiugalu Tevita Funaki highlights the importance of cultural safety in the programme's delivery: "Pacific men face unique pressures and challenges, and it's crucial that any intervention respects their identity and cultural values. 'Te Huringa ō te Ao' is rooted in Pacific traditions, and this ensures that the approach resonates with participants and encourages lasting change." 

The programme aims to break the silence around violence in Pacific communities and give men a safe place to reflect on their actions, take responsibility, and begin healing. By putting the community in the lead and respecting Pacific cultural values and traditions, 'Te Huringa ō te Ao' is setting a new standard for supporting Pacific families in building healthier, safer communities.